March 2014

“Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.” [Matt.4:4]

“Give us this day, our daily bread.” [Matt. 6:11]

The bread of God comes down out of heaven, and gives life to the world.” [John 6:32]

“I am the bread that came down out of heaven.” [John 6:41]

“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 6:51]

“I am the bread of life; the one who comes to Me will not hunger.” [John6:35]

The simple, everyday act of eating bread is something most of us do without thinking. But in our Christian context, bread means much more than a prop for peanut butter. It invites us to remember and celebrate God’s goodness and mercy in the sacrificial gift of His Son.

During the Lenten season this year we will be looking at several stories of “Bread” from both the Old and New Testaments. We will ponder our own hunger, and reflect on Jesus’ profound, nourishing and sufficient grace. And, perhaps, realize anew that His grace is ours to freely receive, as we confess our need and turn to Him to be filled.

The theme is embodied by the folk hymn “Take Our Bread” by Joe Wise, which we will sing each Sunday. If you would like to read some of the Bible stories for yourself ahead of time, you can read John 6:1-13; Exodus 16:1-36; I Kings 19:1-8; Lev. 24:5-9; John 6:25-58.